Whether you’re looking for a Little Mermaid-inspired shoot like Christy Chung‘s or you simply love the effortless beauty of it, here’s how to prepare yourself before the day of the actual shoot.
1. Practice makes perfect
If you thought that shooting underwater’s as easy as the models make it look, you’re wrong. There are obviously more than a few differences when it comes to shooting underwater, and trying to keep your eyes open is one of them. Being able to control your movements is another. So if you have the time, and know of a place to practice (it should, ideally be a swimming pool), do it and ask a friend to help you see and correct your poses.
2. Do your research
From the places to shoot at, to knowing what to do and how to react underwater, all these will help you get the perfect shoot faster. Research should also include makeup – you don’t want to be caught with melting or running makeup on the day of, if you’re doing your own. If you’re hiring a professional makeup artist and hair stylist, look at his or her portfolio to see if he or she has done underwater shoots before.
3. Wear the right outfits
Unlike regular photo shoots where you can choose to wear whatever gown you like, it’s best to don something lightweight and can float easily underwater. Don’t wear something that will weigh you down, as it impedes movement and can potentially get dangerous (I’ve heard of stories where brides almost drown in their voluminous ballgowns during an underwater shoot).
4. Ask for feedback
So you know how you’re doing and how you can improve.
5. Know how to sink
One of the difficulties in posing for your photo, is that you’ll find yourself floating or sink without will. If you’re looking to go deeper into the water, release air slowly from your lungs.